Construction material prices down in December but up for the year

Prices for construction materials fell in December, but the costs escalated for the year, according to an analysis of federal data by the Associated General Contractors of America.

“Moderate price swings for several materials last year gave contractors some breathing room, but future price spikes could push many firms into the red,” said Kenneth Simonson, chief economist for the trade group in a statement. “Contractors have not recovered from the cost increases they had to absorb in 2010 and…